A remarkable collection, seventy-five photographs of Ansel Adams' work, hand-picked by himself--a last statement portfolio to represent his life's work. Range from his beloved Yosemite to the Pacific Coast, Southwest, Alaska, Hawaii, New England, and the Northwest.

COLLECTOR’S 1986 out-of-print vintage stated true first hardcover edition, first printing book with original dust jacket – Classic Images by Ansel Adams. Introduction by John Szarkowski. Biographical essay by James Alinder.

TRUE first edition will state:” First Hardcover Edition. This book was originally published in 1985 in slightly different form as the paperback catalogue for the National Gallery of Art exhibition.”

These classic breathtaking photographs were selected by the late Ansel Adams himself to be permanently representative of his work. Included are familiar scenic compositions like Moonrise, Hernandez and Half Dome, Yosemite, but there are also portraiture including Adams' self portrait and close-ups of patterns in nature.

James Alinder, director of Friends of Photography, chronicles Adams's life and describes his particular development in which perception of subtle tonalities came to define the photographer's vision. He tells also of great technical achievements (such as the "zone system" for exposure and printing) and this master photographer's related sensibilities as a classical musician and ardent nature conservationist.

Museum of Modern Art curator John Szarkowski appraises the impact Adams had on America's appreciation of itself. He speaks to the American people’s extraordinary love for Adams and his heroic work, reflecting that “Adams’ photographs seem to demonstrate that our world is what we would wish it was – a place with room in it for fresh beginnings.”

Each of the 76 duotone photographs contained is a unique masterpiece with a life of its own. Looking at these splendid photographs, one feels drawn right in to the specific location and year. Photos do not fully capture exact hues, lighting and exquisite detail; wait until you see them up close. Below is a partial listing of photographs which include some of our favorites:

We are currently on vacation until Tuesday, February 20. We will try to respond to emails during our absence. Purchase orders are welcome and will automatically reserve the item for you. We will be happy to confirm your purchases and answer any questions upon our return.